Exclusive: Former Man Utd Star Doubts Ruben Amorim Knows His Best Starting XI

Manchester United legend Sammy McIlroy is convinced new boss Ruben Amorim doesn’t know what his best team is yet.

The under-fire Portuguese boss is facing mounting pressure after the club’s poor run since he took over the managerial reigns from Erik ten Hag.

And with United worryingly languishing in 14th position in the Premier League, the pressure is mounting on Amorim to turn things around.

Relegation is still a shock possibility, but become more unlikely, especially after a battling 3-2 comeback victory over Ipswich Town secured three welcome points to add some respectability to what has been an awful season for the club.

“The new manager has come in and, obviously, he’s got his own system, but at present I don’t think he knows who his best XI should be,” stressed McIlroy, in an exclusive interview with SportsBoom.com. 

“That’s my opinion, but as yet I don’t think he knows who his best three centre-backs are and his two wing-backs, which is very important to his system."

“I still think he’s thinking about those positions and got things on his mind - and he’s not 100 per cent sure yet."

“I think Amorim knows we’re going to have to play a hell of a lot better – and consistently better to progress where we want to be."

“When a new manager comes in they say to the players it’s a chance to impress me, it’s a clean straight and everyone starts from fresh."

“I think this is what Amorim has said to them, but for whatever reason it’s not really working for them at the minute."

“This manager is brave at the end of the day, he’s not frightened to make decisions."

“If you don’t play ball and play the way he wants you to play, well then you’ll suffer the consequences.”

OLD TRAFFORD EXITS

Long-serving forward Marcus Rashford is a case in point, shipped out to Premier League rivals Aston Villa on loan in the January transfer window.

And other under-performing players like Anthony have been shown the exit door at Old Trafford since Amorim’s arrival.

United have a break from Premier League action until Sunday this week when they host arch-rivals Arsenal.

But on Thursday they play Real Sociedad in the last 16 of UEFA Europa Cup, with the first leg set to be a real benchmark to whether they can challenge for honours this season.

The return fixture is on Thursday 13th March with a coveted quarter-final berth up for grabs.

“He knows Man Utd need trophies,” added McIlroy. 

“But you know trophies sometimes don’t necessarily say you keep a job."

“But it would be nice for the new man to come in and get some silverware just to settle everything down and then progress from there.”

Midfielder Mason Mount joined the Reds from Chelsea on a five-year deal worth £55million plus £5m in add-ons in June 2023.

But the former England international, 26, has been plagued with injuries since his high-profile move from Stamford Bridge having made just three starts in eight Premier League appearances this season.

He limped out of the 2-1 Manchester derby win over Manchester City after just 14 minutes on 15 December – and hasn’t featured at all since.

“It’s sad to see Mason Mount out injured and struggling with injuries,” said McIlroy.

“He’s come to the club with a reputation. We all know he can play, whether that’s been with Chelsea in the Premier League and international level."

“But unfortunately, since he’s come here he’s been blighted with injuries. It must be absolutely crucifying the boy."

“He just hasn’t been able to get a consistent run going since he signed for the club, which is a shame.”